A new study has found that even small amounts of alcoholic beverages consumed daily can significantly increase the risk of developing cancer. According to data published in The Nutrition Source, regular alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of seven types of cancer, including breast, liver, mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box and rectal cancer.
Researchers paid special attention to the effect of alcohol on women. It found that those who drink two alcoholic drinks a day have a 15.3% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, compared with 11.3% for those who drink less than one drink a week.
The main mechanism linking alcohol to cancer is its metabolism into the toxic substance acetaldehyde. This compound can damage DNA, causing tumor formation. In addition, alcohol promotes the production of reactive oxygen species, which cause inflammation and cell damage.
Alcohol can also increase hormone levels, including estrogen, which increases the likelihood of breast cancer. Experts point out that alcoholic drinks can act as solvents, increasing the effects of other carcinogens, such as toxins contained in tobacco smoke.
Despite this evidence, public awareness of the risks remains insufficient. According to research, less than half of respondents are aware of the connection between alcohol and the risk of cancer. In this regard, experts from the World Health Organization recommend reducing alcohol consumption and strengthening information campaigns about its dangers.
Earlier, “Cursor” wrote that experts told what problems strict diets can lead to.
